Ethiraj College Song Lyrics -

You can find the full lyrics of the Ethiraj College anthem, a song representing pride, truth, and sisterhood for the alumnae and students, right here. Ethiraj College Song Lyrics

(Chorus)Hail, Ethiraj! Our pride and joy,To thee our hearts we bring,With voices loud and spirits high,Thy praises we will sing.

(Verse 1)Truth and Service, our noble aim,Guided by your light,In every field, we’ll make a name,For justice and for right.

(Verse 2)From various paths and different lands,As one we stand today,Held fast by friendship’s golden bands,That never shall decay.

(Chorus)Hail, Ethiraj! Our pride and joy,To thee our hearts we bring,With voices loud and spirits high,Thy praises we will sing.

The song reflects the vision of founder Shri V.L. Ethiraj, emphasizing service and lifelong bonds, and is sung during key events like the Investiture Ceremony, Maithri fest, and Graduation Day, serving as a powerful reminder of the institution's legacy.

Here are the lyrics to the official college song (often referred to as the "College Anthem" or "Motto Song") of Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai.

The song is based on the college motto: "Ever To Excel" (Rev. Dr. G. U. Pope's translation of the Tamil saying "Thoonga Thamizh…").

Title: Ever to Excel / Ethiraj College Anthem ethiraj college song lyrics

Lyrics:

In the realms of sacred knowledge, Where the lamp of truth is lit, Stands our noble Alma Mater, Ethiraj, our benefit.

Chorus: Ever to Excel, Striving for the best, Seeking greater heights of knowledge, Putting every power to test.

Here we learn to love our country, Here we learn to serve mankind, Here our hearts are filled with courage, Leaving narrow thoughts behind.

(Chorus)

Like the fragrance from the flower, Like the honey from the bee, May our lives spread joy and sweetness, From the bondage, set us free.

(Chorus)

When we leave these sacred portals, To the world's great battle fair, May the motto, "Ever to Excel", Guide us everywhere. You can find the full lyrics of the

(Chorus)

Note: Some versions include a stanza in Tamil before or after the English verses. The most common Tamil line recited is:

"Thoonga Thamizh… Thoonga Thamizh…" (referring to the undying nature of Tamil and knowledge), but the primary official anthem is the English version above.

If you need the exact sheet music or confirmation of slight variations (some alumnae sing "Ethiraj, our only benefit"), this is the widely accepted standard version used in college events and assemblies.

Essay Title: The Ethiraj College Anthem – A Musical Celebration of Heritage, Empowerment, and Academic Aspiration

Guide to the Ethiraj College Song

Song Title: Ethiraj College Thamizh Thaai Vaazhthu (Official Anthem) Institution: Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai Language: Tamil

This song is traditionally sung during the college assembly, official functions, and cultural events. It pays homage to the founder, Thiru. V. L. Ethiraj, and invokes the blessings of the goddess of learning.

The Core Verse (Emphasizing Discipline)

"Thannambikkai Oliyodu, Thaniyalum Manam Ellaam,
Nermaiyin Vazhi Nindraal, Nigar Illai Ulagilae..." Title: Ever to Excel / Ethiraj College Anthem

(Meaning):

  • This stanza teaches that with the light of self-confidence (Thannambikkai Oliyodu) and a pure mind (Manam Ellaam), if one stands firmly on the path of righteousness (Nermaiyin Vazhi Nindraal), there is no equal in the world (Nigar Illai Ulagilae). This directly reflects Sir Ethiraj’s personal ethos of integrity.

How to Learn the Song: A Practical Guide

If you are a current student or a new staff member searching for Ethiraj College song lyrics, follow this three-step method:

  1. Listen First: Search for "Ethiraj College for Women Anthem" on YouTube. The official videos from the college's 70th anniversary feature the choir.
  2. Break Down the Chorus: The chorus ("Vetri Vetri...") is the easiest. Memorize this first, as it is sung three times.
  3. Focus on Pronunciation: Pay special attention to the retroflex 'L' in "Aazhamum" and the soft 'N' in "Penmai." The Tamil department often conducts workshops in July.

The Song in Popular Culture & Alumni Life

The legacy of the Ethiraj college song extends beyond the campus walls. Notable alumni, including former IAS officers, actors, and scientists, have requested this song to be played at their weddings and retirement functions.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, a virtual choir of 500+ alumni sang the Ethiraj College song lyrics from homes across the globe (USA, UK, Singapore, Australia) and posted it online, raising funds for underprivileged girl students. The comment section was flooded with emotional responses like "Tears rolling down... this song is my identity."

3. Musical Composition

Part 5: The Significance – More Than Just Words

Why do 20-year-old students, often more interested in pop music, still stand in reverence for this 70-year-old song?

1. The Rhythm of Belonging Singing the Ethiraj College song lyrics during the annual "College Day" or "Sports Meet" creates a Pavlovian response of unity. For three minutes, the hierarchy of juniors and seniors dissolves. You are just an Ethirajian.

2. The Feminist Subtext Decades before mainstream feminism in India, the song explicitly celebrated Penmaiyin Sangamam. In a society where women were often told to be silent, the song commands them to speak of Kadamai (duty) and Kodai (charity)—traits historically reserved for male discourse.

3. The Meditative Quality Set to a Carnatic-style meter (usually Raga Mohanam or a derivative thereof), the song acts as a grounding exercise. Many ex-students confess that during stressful job interviews or difficult times, the line "Nermaiyin Vazhi Nindraal" echoes in their heads, reinforcing their moral compass.

Verse 1: Invoking the Mother

  • Thaaye, Thaaye, Ethiraj Nagar Thaaye: O Mother, Mother, Mother of the city of Ethiraj (the college). The college is personified as a nurturing goddess.
  • Gnana Oli Veesu, Indha Mandhirathil: Spread the light of knowledge in this temple (campus). Education is equated with spiritual light.
  • Anbudan Koottu, Indha Penmani Thangam: Gather us with love, this precious gem of womankind. It elevates female students as invaluable gems.